Unheard Stories

(Past Project)

Working with poet Geneviève L Walsh and Storyteller and Artist Jen Ramsay ‘Unheard Stories’ uncovered stories that were discarded as unimportant pieces of history, the narratives of ‘unimportant’ people. For example the stories of Bolton women placed in homes for unmarried mothers when they ‘fell pregnant out of wedlock’ in the 1960’s.

‘Unheard Stories’ highlighted the stigma of invisible disabilities – which “don’t exist because we can’t see them”.

‘Unheard Stories’ unsilenced stories that had been shamed into silence. 

‘Unheard Stories’ remembered the past and acknowledged present challenges women face. We acknowledged patriarchy, stigma, discrimination, pressures to conform and to tick boxes.

This project celebrated women in the present and remembered and celebrated women from the past. We aim to make changes for the future.

Funded by Rosa and Standing Together- Bolton Fund

Rosa Voices from the Frontline Films

Anonymous Letters

“For me it’s been a life saver. It’s something to get up, dressed and showered and catch the bus for. At home I feel ill. When I come here I feel more alive. I can leave on a high. I find it a good place to do my ‘personal development’ thing. I learn a lot and I have learned to change my habits. You see, I find it a safe place to be. I was a people pleaser and always did what I was told but here I choose what I want to do! All the workshops are well organised and staff are very creative, approachable and supportive. For me it makes Bolton a good place to be!”

“I found hearing/seeing my video on a big screen really therapeutic/self-healing. All of the pieces are so inspirational and uplifting, whilst still reminding us of the shared experiences we have as women with lived experience. Working with Stand up Sisters is always enjoyable for me. I find it really helpful to meet others with similar life experience to me. Coming to groups has really helped to build my confidence over the past couple of years. Both professionally and personally, the people in this group have helped me feel comfortable as myself. The staff have always been so kind. It makes me feel able to take up the space I need and ask for accommodations, rather than always making myself as small as possible. I am so grateful for this group and the people in it.”

” I enjoyed hearing peoples stories and watching the videos. They were very creative. I like having the opportunity to read my poetry and share my thoughts. I’ve enjoyed the creative writing workshops. It has given me the opportunity to explore my feelings more and express myself.”

“Stand up Sisters – getting my self confidence and self esteem up. It’s lovely meeting new people and not being judged. Enjoyed 29th September, I read my piece and feel proud of myself.”

“This event is not only inspiring but necessary to bring a voice and raise awareness to the plight of the sisters of mercy but for all the women put into similar traumatic circumstances. As we rise we heal. I stand up for stand up sisters!”